PRP's 3D/4D Ultrasound Service Information

3D Ultrasounds are when a series of thin 2D slices are digitally reconstructed to give more life-like images with 4D scans have the added dimension of time so the 3D images appear to be moving.

3D/4D ultrasound uses the same ultrasound beams as the conventional 2D ultrasound, with extra processing performed by the ultrasound machine’s computer. There is some diagnostic advantages for the use of 3D/4D ultrasound in obstetrics.

Preparation

Empty bladder 90 mins prior to appointment, drink 750ml of water over the next 60 mins and hold.

What happens during the procedure

You may be asked to put on a gown. Gel is applied to the skin to improve contact between the skin and transducer (a handheld plastic probe that sends and receives the reflected sound waves that form the image). The transducer is moved slowly over the abdomen to acquire images in different planes. A special transducer will allow a computer to generate a 3 dimensional image. Real time 3D imaging allows movement to be observed (a 4D ultrasound).

The images are displayed on a computer monitor for interpretation. Ultrasound is painless but discomfort from transducer pressure may be experienced if your bladder is full.

How long does it take?

An ultrasound takes approx 15-60 minutes depending on the complexity.

After your examination

There are no restrictions after having an ultrasound.

Your images and report

After your examination, the most pertinent images from your study will be available on the myPRP patient portal. A report, along with the images will be sent directly to your referring doctor. PRP will store digital copies of all studies on our secure database for comparison with any future examinations.

It is important that you return to your doctor with your examination results. Whether they are normal or abnormal, your doctor needs to know promptly so that a management plan can be formulated.